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Medical Assistant Certification: The Facts Since employers extend offers to the best candidate, it is imperative to do all you can to rank above other applicants. One way for medical assistants to do this is by becoming a Certified or Registered Medical Assistant. This is the step beyond completion of a Medical Assistant program. A medical assistant becomes certified or registered after passing a competency test offered by a nationally recognized professional organization. Please note: Do not confuse certification through your school with nationally recognized certification. While your school may assist with registering graduates for tests and proctoring exams, the school itself is not the certifying entity. Current trends show Houston physicians are requesting medical assistants with certification or registry. This trend may be attributed to risk management factors on the part of the employer, a better insight to the merits of professional development, and visibility of local professional association chapters. Other benefits of becoming certified • You have the opportunity to keep your skills current by taking continuing education credits and networking with leaders in your field. This can be done online and by attending local meetings. • Obtaining your certification shows commitment to, and pride in, your chosen profession. • Certification may give you an edge over comparable non-certified Medical Assistants applying for the same position. • If you are not certified, a physician may have to choose a lesser qualified, yet certified, medical assistant. What is the cost? Who should I contact to get certified? • AAMA - American Association of Medical Assistants: http://www.aama-ntl.org • AMT - American Medical Technologists: http://www.amt1.com • NCCT - National Center for Competency Testing: http://www.ncctinc.com These organizations require completion of a Medical Assisting program from an accredited institution (accreditations vary); or, some will recognize current employment as a Medical Assistant along with a physician's recommendation. Depending on the certifying entity, a medical assistant may be required to take some continuing education courses to maintain certification. Visit the websites to get specific information regarding qualifications, the application process, and costs. Related Articles: Preparing for a Successful Interview Preparing a Solid Resume Will You Get the Call? |
